The Capsian Escargotières

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Abstract
Capsian [human] occupation in the Cheria-Telidjene region of NE Algeria coincides with a phase of alluviation (about 9500-6500 yr ago) with a semiarid climate. These conditions were interrupted briefly at about 8800 yr ago by an erosional interval with a warmer and drier climate. While land snails [Helix melanostoma, Leucochroa candissima, Helicella setifensis] and vertebrates were favored sources of high quality protein, the former apparently comprised only 1/6 of the animal protein in the diet. Differential exploitation of these species was a function of site location and local environmental conditions. The faunal assemblage from the Ain Misteheyia escargotiere is consistent with semiarid conditions, but the subsistence base probably changed in the brief arid period. The onset of drier conditions is associated with an increase in the frequency of hygrophyllic land snail H. setifensis, probably due to a reduction in vertebrate biomass and consequent increased exploitation of H. setifensis. The artifact assemblage reveals a clear change in the tool kit, coincident with the onset of more arid conditions and change in the subsistence base. Much of the variability may be due to local resource availability rather than cultural distinctions among groups. The amount of food refuse accumulated in about 3000 yr indicates that the net period of occupation for groups of about 20 individuals was only about 230-400 yr. Apparently the occupation was sporadic. A general pattern of rotating settlement with intermitent residency at any 1 site is likely. Such a pattern explains the remarkable density of Capsian escargotieres in NE Algeria. This rotational pattern conserved local resources (especially land snails) and mitigated against overpredation of vertebrates and invertebrates. The Capsian subsistence adaptation was innovative, conservationist and highly successful.